HOUSEHOLDERS in Runcorn were warned to stay indoors today, after police received reports of a chemical cloud in the area.

The cloud was believed to be made up of chlorine gas, and the leak is believed to have come from the Ineos Chlor plant, formerly the ICI site.

The new owners said this week that £635m was needed during the next 10 years to revamp the plant.

The leak is now believed to be under control.

A spokeswoman for Cheshire Police, speaking earlier today, said: "We are advising residents living in the Weston area to stay indoors with their windows and doors closed. Residents have been given a safety leaflet in the past and we would advise them to follow the instructions carefully."